Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul has clarified that Thailand will not establish any border checkpoints with Cambodia at this time, emphasizing the importance of listening to the public's voice. He did not dismiss the possibility of a face-to-face meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, expressing hope to reach a resolution on certain issues while ensuring Thailand's interests remain protected. Anutin stated, "I will definitely go to the area. In the past, I was so diligent that I was fired."
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin addressed the ongoing opposition to reopening the Thai-Cambodian border crossing, stating, "We haven't opened it yet. We're waiting to hear from our fellow citizens." He highlighted that reopening the border will require numerous agreements, including negotiations and military cooperation, with a priority on ensuring the safety of both citizens and the country. "There must be no shooting or weapons pointed at each other," he asserted.
Anutin further explained that once the country is under his control, he will provide instructions or policies to the new Defense Minister, focusing on the removal of weapons and landmines to guarantee safety for both nations. He emphasized the long journey ahead before reaching such agreements, underscoring the importance of diplomatic and peaceful resolutions over violent measures. "We must utilize both science and art, diplomacy, military force, relaxation, and various forms of pressure," he noted.
When asked about the possibility of a meeting between the Thai and Cambodian prime ministers, Anutin remarked that while meetings do not guarantee compromise, they can alter atmospheres and resolve misunderstandings. He stressed that as Thailand's Prime Minister, he will not permit any disadvantage to the country or any harm to its people. "I'm the Prime Minister of Thailand, not the Prime Minister of another country. Therefore, protecting the interests of Thailand and the Thai people is the main priority," he affirmed.
Regarding local opinions on the border checkpoint opening, Anutin expressed his commitment to fieldwork, stating, "When it comes to fieldwork, who can compete with me?" He recounted his extensive fieldwork experience during his tenure as Minister of Public Health and Minister of the Interior, joking about being "so diligent that he was fired."
In response to questions about a four-month timeframe for decisions, Anutin commented, "We have the authority to administer the country. Therefore, as long as we remain within our authority, we must use it to its fullest extent." He concluded that the extent of their actions will depend on the evolving situation.